As the COVID-19 virus continues to spread, vaccines have become a crucial tool in the fight against it. However, with the rapid development and deployment of vaccines, many people have questions and concerns about vaccines’ safety and effectiveness. Below, we will discuss the facts and debunk some of the common myths surrounding COVID-19 vaccines and viral transmission.
What Is the COVID-19 vaccine?
The COVID-19 vaccine is designed to protect against COVID-19. It works by training the immune system to recognize and fight the virus that causes COVID-19. There are currently several different types of COVID-19 vaccines approved for use.
How do COVID-19 vaccines work?
COVID-19 vaccines work by exposing the body to a harmless piece of the virus that causes COVID-19. This piece of the virus is called an antigen, and it triggers an immune response in the body. The immune system then produces antibodies to fight the virus.
If the person is later exposed to the actual virus, their immune system will recognize it and be able to fight it off more effectively.
It is important to note that COVID-19 vaccines do not contain live virus and cannot give you COVID-19.
Debunking myths about COVID-19 vaccines
Myth #1: COVID-19 vaccines were rushed and are not safe
It is true that COVID-19 vaccines were developed much more quickly than most vaccines. However, this is not because safety protocols were skipped or shortcuts were taken. The vaccines were developed quickly because of unprecedented coordination and funding from governments and the scientific community.
All COVID-19 vaccines have undergone extensive clinical trials to ensure their safety and efficacy. The vaccines have been tested on a high number of people, and the results have been reviewed by independent experts.
Myth #2: COVID-19 vaccines will alter tour DNA
This is a common myth about mRNA vaccines, such as the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines. However, it is not true. mRNA vaccines work by instructing cells in the body to make a harmless piece of the virus.
This piece of the virus then triggers an immune response. The mRNA does not enter the cell nucleus, where DNA is located, and it does not alter DNA in any way.
Myth #3: COVID-19 vaccines are not effective
The vaccines you can receive at our COVID vaccine clinic have been shown to be highly effective at combating the virus. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is 95% effective.
Even if you do get COVID-19 after being vaccinated, the vaccine can help reduce the severity of the illness and lower the risk of hospitalization and death.
What is viral transmission?
Viral transmission refers to the process by which a virus spreads from one person to another. In the case of COVID-19, the virus is primarily spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person talks, coughs or sneezes. The droplets can land in the mouth or nose of someone nearby or be inhaled into his or her lungs.
How does viral transmission work?
Viral transmission can occur in several ways. The most common way COVID-19 is transmitted is through close contact with an infected person. This can happen when you are within 6 feet of someone who is infected for a total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period.
COVID-19 also can be transmitted through touching a surface or object contaminated with the virus and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes. While this is not the primary way the virus spreads, it is still important to practice good hand hygiene and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
Debunking myths about viral transmission
Myth #1: COVID-19 only can be transmitted by people who are showing symptoms
This is not true. COVID-19 can be transmitted by people who are asymptomatic or presymptomatic, meaning they are infected with the virus but have not yet developed symptoms.
Myth #2: COVID-19 can be transmitted through the mail or packages
There is currently no evidence to suggest that COVID-19 can be transmitted through mail or packages. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the risk of getting COVID-19 from handling mail or packages is low.
Myth #3: COVID-19 can be transmitted through food
There currently is no evidence to suggest that COVID-19 can be transmitted through food or food packaging. The virus is primarily spread through respiratory droplets, not through food or food packaging.
Looking for a COVID-19 vaccine clinic near you?
Are you interested in getting vaccinated against COVID-19? If so, 219 Health Network is the place to visit. As a top-rated COVID-19 vaccine clinic in Northwest Indiana, we are committed to providing safe, effective and easily accessible vaccinations to our community. Contact us today at 833-219-0001 to get started.